Brett Patzke-Imagn Images

Quinn Ewers Projected to Replace $230 Million Quarterback in Latest NFL Mock Draft

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Nicholas Simon | Last updated Feb 11, 2025 12:26 PM ET

With Super LIX now in the rearview mirror, anticipation builds for the 2025 NFL Draft this April. Texas Longhorns quarterback Quinn Ewers is one of the more noteworthy prospects entering this year's draft and one expert has an idea of where he may land.

NFL.com draft analyst Chad Reuter released his three-round mock draft on Monday and projected Ewers being taken in second round by the Cleveland Browns at No. 33. That would make him the first player taken in round two and given the AFC North franchise's precarious QB situation, he'd have a strong chance at starting as a rookie.

Ewers officially declared for the 2025 NFL Draft in January, ending a successful three-year stint as Texas' starter where he became the program's third all-time leading passer. The Southlake, TX, native played a huge role in elevating the Longhorns back to national relevance, helping lead the team to back-to-back trips to the College Football Playoff semifinals.

However, his time in Austin wasn't all smooth sailing as injuries and inconsistent play at times provided speed bumps in an otherwise successful career. The veteran faced criticism following both of Longhorns' losses to Georgia this past season, as well as their semifinal loss to Ohio State. At times, some called for him to be benched in favor of backup Arch Manning, but the veteran remained the starter until the very end.

As for Reuter's mock draft projection, Ewers would be walking into a chaotic situation in Cleveland that he could possibly exploit to his advantage. Deshaun Watson's $230 million guaranteed contract has turned into a massive albatross for the Browns and the team will be in search of a starting QB for next season after he re-tore his Achilles last month.

Between this and backup veteran Jameis Winston entering free agency, the door would be wide open for Ewers to step in and start immediately for the struggling franchise. And with Reuter having Cleveland taking Heisman Trophy winner Travis Hunter with the No. 2 overall pick in his mock, the Texas QB would at least have another explosive rookie weapon to work with right out the gate.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: